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Drews The Ironmongers to close after 87 years

Published: 23 October 2018 - Fiona Garcia
Drews The Ironmongers will close its doors post Christmas, after 87 years of trading
Drews The Ironmongers will close its doors post Christmas, after 87 years of trading

The much-loved family-run business, which has operated in Reading for nearly nine decades, will cease trading after Christmas, with 26 people set to lose their jobs.

Drews made the announcement on Facebook, stating that the business was no longer viable due to rising costs and the increasing dominance of online traders.

The full statement posted on social media read: “We are sad to tell you that we will be closing the store after Christmas. We have traded in Reading for 87 years but unfortunately the costs of running a "bricks and mortar" retail store in a world now dominated by internet merchants mean that it is no longer a viable business. We are closing with the loss of 26 jobs.”

A closing down sale is currently underway, with 25% off goods across the shop in order to clear stock. The business added that it will continue to deliver its “non-stock 'special order' service as usual”.

The announcement has generated a big reaction online, with more than 400 comments from people expressing their sadness and disappointment at news of the store’s imminent closure, calling it “the best shop in Reading” and praising staff for “going the extra mile to help”. Some conveyed frustration, adding that the “internet can never deliver the kind of knowledge and service” that Drews offered its customers.

One comment said: “What a great loss. A wonderful place with knowledgeable people manning the counters. Until the tax laws are changed this kind of shop will disappear.”

Another added: “You guys will be greatly missed by the tradesmen and people of Reading. Truly a one off shop with excellent staff. Wishing you all the best for the future.”

Drews The Ironmongers was established in the town in 1931 and is run by the Drew family; David and Doreen, and sons Nic and Chris. The independent business offers a range of tools, workwear, ironmongery, security products, fixings and plumbing goods to both trade and retail customers. It also had strong ties with its local community, sponsoring the annual Englefield 10km charity race event.

The family-run business, located on Caversham Road, offers a range of tools, workwear, ironmongery, security products, fixings and plumbing goods to both trade and retail customers
The family-run business, located on Caversham Road, offers a range of tools, workwear, ironmongery, security products, fixings and plumbing goods to both trade and retail customers

 

Comments

05 December 2018 10:37:52
Dave Percy

A Huge Huge loss to Reading, this store has always delivered on every level , the staff are amazing freindly knowligable and it was so nice to see staff that had been there for years which is unusual these days They always carry a great range you could rely on them to have products that you find dificult to get elsewhere. the internet does not give help and advice and so beter to be able to pick something up when you need it, I have used Drews for years and so so sorry to see them closing, sad also for the staff hope they all find employment elsewhere a great bunch of people.

End of an era.

23 October 2018 18:22:16
Mike

This shop is a jewel in Reading.  I guess that i’m as guilty as most by buying on-line but Drews has always been there when i wanted them.  Change your mind Drew family - carry on!


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